Local label, bettyElm Records, has a vision to foster a music scene in Syracuse that is a thriving and diverse. To accomplish this, label founders Jen and James Bort, are putting efforts behind their words and demonstrating their commitment with the acts they are signing. Saturday, April 5th, the Bull and Bear Pub at 125 E. Water Street in Syracuse, played host to the first bettyElm Records showcase, one part of the label’s strategy to get local bands the attention they deserve.
“I” featuring Niki Dellios (Photo: Micha L. Crook | Syracuse New Times)
The showcase consisted of three acts. The first to perform, I, anchored by songstress Niki Dellios, is an ethereal soundscape with just her voice and an electric guitar. Haunting and dreamy, I is a moody, sensual mix of emotional journeys and cathartic release.
Next was Fowls, the first to be signed to the bettyElm label, is a polished alternative math-pop band, feeling reminiscent of postmodern Brit-pop of the eighties. If John Hughes was still alive and making films about life and love of the American youth, Fowls would seamlessly be the soundtrack, highlighting the contrasting moods from angst to joy and back again, all in a single moment.
Fowls. (Photo: Micha L. Crook | Syracuse New Times)
The final act to perform, Inclusive Or, whose first release will be this summer, closed out the evening with high energy of buzzing guitars and sparse lyrics. A cool mix of catchy melodic riffs and classic rock and roll sensibilities, they were the perfect musical climax of a great night of amazing and accomplished musicians.
Inclusive Or. (Photo: Micha L. Crook | Syracuse New Times)
Jen and James Bort, founders of bettyElm Records. (Photo: Micha L. Crook | Syracuse New Times)
To learn more about these band and bettyElm Records, visit the website HERE .
The next bettyElm Records showcase will be May 3rd at Zink’s Dark Room, 19 E. Cayuga Street, Oswego.
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